Government Scraps Changes to Probate Fees

The decision previously announced by the government to change probate fee charges has now been scrapped.

The reason behind this appears to be the snap general election, with the notice from Newcastle District Probate Registry, stating:

‘There is not enough time for the Statutory Instrument which would introduce the new fee structure to complete its passage through Parliament before it is dissolved ahead of the general election. This is now a matter for the next Government.’

The draft regulations had proposed a new charging structure which would have seen vast increases in the amount payable by larger estates.

The changes had been criticised as they were felt to be unfair, unpractical and more akin to a tax than a fee, therefore the scrapping of the regulations has been welcomed.

It remains to be seen whether the charges will be re-introduced in the next Parliament.